Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting Started — Ledger Wallet Setup Guide

Introduction

With the rise of cryptocurrency and decentralized finance (DeFi), secure storage of digital assets is more important than ever. As hackers and scams grow more sophisticated, crypto users are turning to hardware wallets to protect their investments. Ledger, a global leader in crypto security, provides a simple yet powerful solution to store crypto offline—safely and independently.

If you’ve recently purchased a Ledger Nano S Plus or Ledger Nano X, your journey begins at the Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start® | Getting started — ledger page. This is the go-to platform to properly set up your device, install the Ledger Live app, and start managing your digital assets securely.

This article walks you through everything you need to know—from unboxing your device to first-time setup, security best practices, and post-setup tips.

Why Use Ledger? A Brief Overview

Ledger devices are hardware wallets that allow you to manage your crypto assets offline. This approach is referred to as cold storage, meaning your private keys never leave your device and are never exposed to the internet.

Key benefits of using Ledger include:

  • Industry-leading security: Secure Element chips protect your private keys

  • Full control: You manage your own crypto, not a third party

  • Compatibility: Supports over 5,000 digital assets including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and NFTs

  • Access through Ledger Live: Manage, track, and grow your assets in one interface

Step 1: Visit the Official Site® | Ledger.com/Start®

The first and most important step is to begin your setup using the official onboarding page. This ensures you avoid counterfeit websites or apps. The Ledger.com/Start® page provides safe, guided instructions tailored to your specific device—either the Ledger Nano S Plus or Nano X.

Once on the page, you’ll choose your device model, verify its authenticity, and follow the prompts to install Ledger Live, the companion app that connects to your wallet.

Step 2: Download Ledger Live

Ledger Live is the official desktop and mobile application that allows you to:

  • Install apps for different cryptocurrencies

  • Send and receive crypto

  • Stake supported assets

  • View your real-time portfolio

  • Manage NFTs

Once downloaded, open the app and select “Initialize as new device” if you’re starting fresh. You’ll then proceed to connect your Ledger device to your computer or phone.

Step 3: Set Up Your Ledger Wallet

During this phase, your device will guide you through the following:

• Choosing a PIN Code

This is your first layer of physical protection. Choose a code that’s memorable but secure.

• Writing Down Your 24-Word Recovery Phrase

Your device will generate a 24-word backup phrase. Write it down on the recovery sheet provided in the box and store it in a secure, offline location.

⚠️ Warning: Never enter this phrase on any website or app. Ledger will never ask for your recovery phrase.

• Confirming the Recovery Phrase

Your Ledger device will ask you to verify your phrase by re-entering certain words. This step ensures you’ve written it down correctly.

Step 4: Connect Your Device to Ledger Live

Once initialized, your Ledger is ready to pair with Ledger Live. From here, you can:

  • Add crypto accounts (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum)

  • Install relevant blockchain apps

  • Begin sending and receiving assets

Each transaction will require physical confirmation on the device—adding a crucial layer of protection.

Security Best Practices

Now that your Ledger wallet is set up, follow these essential tips to maintain long-term safety:

  • Never share your recovery phrase. If someone gets access to it, they can control your funds.

  • Update your firmware and apps regularly through Ledger Live.

  • Use only the official Ledger Live app downloaded via Ledger.com/Start®.

  • Enable passphrase protection if you want an extra layer of access security.

Troubleshooting and Support

If you run into any problems during setup—whether it’s a connectivity issue, firmware update error, or trouble installing an app—Ledger.com/Start® provides direct access to support resources. These include: